Series T-670

High Precision Spark Gap Switches

For use in:

Laser Drivers Marx Generators Capacitor Banks Current Injectors Pulse-forming Networks

General Description
The T-670 switch is an extremely versatile and compact pressurized spark gap. Designed for operation in the 20 to 100kV range, the switch can reliably handle a peak current of 100kA and a charge transfer of 0.15Coulomb. Its unique pancake design allows maximum use of available space for high density packaging and low inductance. The T-670 can be operated maintenance-free for more than 10,000 shots at full ratings, making it ideally suited for systems requiring a high rate of use with minimum down-time. This switch has proven to be the standard of the industry because of its high reliability, versatility, long life, low maintenance, and easy disassembly for periodic cleaning.

Applications
These switches are used in laser drivers, Marx generators, capacitor banks, current injectors, pulse-forming networks, and other applications requiring high-voltage switching. Their pancake configuration makes them particularly well-suited to fairly high-energy applications requiring small size and/or low inductance.

Specifications
Maximum Peak Current: Voltage Range: Timing Jitter (RMS): Max Rep Rate: Inductance: Dielectric Gas: *(CV) Charge Voltage 100 kA 18-100kV <1 ns 10 Hz ~ 60 nH Dry Air or SF6 Dimensions: Weight: Minimum Trigger Voltage: Maximum Charge Transfer: Maintenance Interval at Full Ratings: 4.25 square 1.75 lb. >50% (CV)* 0.15 Coulomb >10,000 Shots

L-3 Communications Pulse Sciences 2700 Merced St. San Leandro, CA 94577-0599 Phone (510) 577-7150 Fax (510) 577-7129

Typical Installations
Marx Generator Circuit
TO ADDITIONAL STAGES

Current Injection Pulser

100 kV DC Rc C1 - +

Rt Rt Rc

Rc = Charging Resistor, 20 k Typ. Rt = Trigger Coupling Resistor 2 k Typ. Trigger Pulse In Rc

C2

Rb Rb RL

Rt Rc Rc Rt
TRIGGER IN

Components C1 Energy Discharge Capacitor C2 Trigger Isolation Capacitor Rb Trigger Bias Resistor Rc Charge Current Limiting Resistor RL Load Resistance

Note: Negative charging voltage produces produces positive pulse output. Reverse charging polarity for negative output.

Rc -50 kV +50 kV

Dimensions and Mounting

4.25 in. 2.5 in. Gas Inlet and Discharge .25 " O.D. Tubing

4.25 in.

1/4-20 UNC-2A Trigger Electrode Connection

1/2-20 UNF-2A Main Electrode Connection

Self-Breakdown Voltage Versus Pressure

200 180 SELF-BREAK VOLTAGE (kV) 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 10 20 PRESSURE (PSIG) 30 40 50
Syn Air thetic
SF 6

200 0.75 cm total electrode gap 180 SELF-BREAK VOLTAGE (kV) 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 10 20 PRESSURE (PSIG) 30 40 50
Syn thet ic A ir

1.0 cm total electrode gap

SF 6

These curves depict the self-breakdown parameters of the T-670 switches in the two available gap options. The operating voltage should be approximately 75% of the self-breakdown levels. Triggering is accomplished by applying a voltage to the mid-plane electrode. The trigger pulse should be a minimum of 50% of the gap operating voltage - 100% is recommended.

L-3 Communications Pulse Sciences 2700 Merced St. San Leandro, CA 94577-0599 Phone (510) 577-7150 Fax (510) 577-7129
T-670/IND/2002/11